Garmin Edge 500 or Polar cs500

[new2rd]

Ok, I'm looking at upgrading my basic computer, but I'm not too sure how far I want to take this. Right now I have a separate Polar HR monitor (watch type) and no cadence sensor. I would like both of those on the new computer. I think I would have fun uploading data on the computer to check out and compare previous rides, BUT would this just be a cool new feature that I would abandon later on? I use map my ride to track all my rides, but it doesn't tell me how long it took me to climb that hill, or what I averaged when I really pushed it for 20 min intervals. Just wanted to see what everyone thought.

[55x11]

Ok, I'm looking at upgrading my basic computer, but I'm not too sure how far I want to take this. Right now I have a separate Polar HR monitor (watch type) and no cadence sensor. I would like both of those on the new computer. I think I would have fun uploading data on the computer to check out and compare previous rides, BUT would this just be a cool new feature that I would abandon later on? I use map my ride to track all my rides, but it doesn't tell me how long it took me to climb that hill, or what I averaged when I really pushed it for 20 min intervals. Just wanted to see what everyone thought.

Get Edge 500, it's a no brainer.

[willieboy]

Get Edge 500, it's a no brainer.

+1 the 500 works flawlessly for me

[BicycleBastard]

I think you would find it hard to beat the Garmin products, whichever you chose. They work well, have a pretty user-friendly interface, and they are supported by a wide variety of formats. I have the 500 and it has really made a difference in my training program.

[sadisticnoob]

I have a cs 200 and the sensors batteries are designed to be used and throw,and they are expensive

[Rogus]

Garmin 500. In my mind one of the best bike related purchases I've made.

[Dajianshan]

My Garmin 500 is a POS. It quit working after 10 months.

[Ramon_hernandezc]

Garmin Edge 500....No complaints after 2 years...Great product...

[squareslinky]

My Garmin 500 is a POS. It quit working after 10 months.

Did you try sending it in for support?

My garmin edge 500 has been fine for over a year.

[new2rd]

Are there any additional expenses with the 500? I was planning on getting the package with CAD and HR monitor.. not sure if there's additional software required.

[ZoSoSwiM]

You shouldn't need to get anything if you buy the package. You don't need maps with the 500. If you went with the older 705 (Which I have) or the new 800 you would likely want to purchase the maps for around $100..

Get the 500.. I'm actually considering getting one because my 705 is acting funny and it's big and bulky. Would like something smaller. Plus a few of the new feature coming out for power users will be nice. Like live TSS.

[IainStevens]

The Garmin 500 is the way to go. The included software is very useful and user-friendly. Another bonus: in the future if you decide to get a power meter the Garmin can be used as the head unit.

[DIRT BOY]

Get the Garmin. Polar with their proprietary protocols is fading in the market. I have been a die hard Polar HRM user since the mid 90s and I dumped them for Garmin, for so many reasons!

[BeepBeepZipTang]

Don't know much about the Polar....but the Garmin 500 gots nice features and I like the copmpact look...also got into an accident with a car(Lady was on cell phone), slammed me,bike and garmin 500 and Garmin replaced it even out of warranty for 18 months. Cool company (1000+ pogi points from me)

[new2rd]

Just dropped a hint to my wife in the form of a hyperlink... hoping for a great anniversary gift. Fingers crossed!
Garmin Edge 500 on Feb 12th? Wish me luck!

[rkdvsm]

Random thought, but I wonder if Apple got into the cyclo-computer business. If they can make cycling computers like the way they make laptops and phones then they'll really put some pressure on Garmin and wipe out the smaller competition.

I know, I know...random thought.

[new2rd]

Guess what? I got it, my wife is the best!! Quick question: Do I need the speed sensor arm and the spoke magnet? I don't plan on using this on a trainer, so I'm not sure there's a need or advantage being that this is a GPS computer. Please let me know what you think? It's still charging so I haven't tried it yet. However, I have everything set-up and ready to go.

[carlislegeorge]

You can live without the wheel magnet if it is a GPS based unit but you'll need the speed arm if you plan on tracking cadence. At least that is how it works on the 800.

Good choice on Garmin versus Polar. I've had both and polar blows....

[Pitts Pilot]

Congrats - I love my 500. Strava has made it even more enjoyable. When I get a new chain/cassette/component - I type it in and it keeps track of mileage for all components. You can set up segments on common rides and not need to use your lap feature, as it will keep track of all that and how you compare with others if you like. My friends and I like trying to snag KOM's from each other on local climbs.

[new2rd]

Congrats - I love my 500. Strava has made it even more enjoyable. When I get a new chain/cassette/component - I type it in and it keeps track of mileage for all components. You can set up segments on common rides and not need to use your lap feature, as it will keep track of all that and how you compare with others if you like. My friends and I like trying to snag KOM's from each other on local climbs.

I had Strava on my i-phone and I just registered for the on-line. I haven't used it yet. Is this what most people use? What about the Garmin webpage? Sorry for all the new questions, but I've been using MapMyRide to keep track of everything. It would be great to see my rides and break them down, like checking my average speed between 4 and 18 miles or my average HR during a climb.